Traveling to Odzala-Kokoua National Park in the Republic of Congo is like stepping into an untouched wilderness, offering one of Africa’s most authentic and immersive safari experiences. Known for its dense rainforests, vibrant biodiversity, and unique opportunities for wildlife encounters, this park is a hidden gem for adventurous travellers seeking to explore the heart of the Congo Basin.
The park is located in a remote, dense rainforest, far removed from the savannahs most people associate with African wildlife.
The true highlight of Odzala, however, is its Western Lowland Gorillas. Tracking these elusive primates through the dense jungle was an exhilarating experience. Many of the park’s expert guides were previously poachers and by hiring them, they no longer form part of the poachig problem. They bring a huge experience in tracking and knowledge of all aspects of the jungle and their enjoyment in sharing these experiences becomes apparent right from the start.
Beyond the gorillas, Odzala offers a wealth of wildlife encounters, from spotting shy bongo antelope to watching forest elephants interact in forest clearings known as bais. These magnificent animals plough through the jungle creating “elephant highways”, often used by visitors to the park as a shortcut to the bais.
For those looking to experience local culture and village life, this is home to the Mbuti pygmies, one of Africa’s indigenous groups, and offers visitors a chance to learn about their traditions and way of life in a remote and peaceful setting.
Odzala-Kokoua National Park is not for the casual traveller—it’s for those seeking raw, unfiltered nature and a deep connection with the wild. Three beautiful lodges, situated in different parts of the park, perfectly blend into their surroundings. Each offering unique experiences including accompanying researchers on gorilla habituation projects and forays into the park via waterways and paths in search of wildlife.
The remoteness of Odzala ensures that the park remains largely unspoiled by tourism, making every wildlife encounter feel intimate and exclusive. Conservation is a key focus here and learning about the ongoing efforts to protect this fragile ecosystem add depth to the experience. It is one of the most isolated, wild and remote places on Earth and a trip to Odzala will be one you never forget.
Note: Childern under 16 years of age are not permitted in the camps.